Is owning and operating a tractor trailor a good career?

Question

I am 19 and considering becoming an owner operator. I have many questions to ask. If you are currently an owner operator and dont mind answering a few questions please email me at [e-mail] thanks

Answer 1

I think it used to be but not so much anymore, I would look around and see what else is out there for you. Maybe become a company driver before going out on your own, lots of headaches with your own tractor.

Answer 2

the money looks and sounds good until your truck breaks down, overweight tickets, maintenance, not to mention the price of diesel fuel right now, and tax time comes in and what once was a refund as a regular driver becomes a tax burden to you and your family. becoming self employed is always a struggle and unless you have a truck and some extra cash to cover you and a family you don't need to worry about supporting, i recommend working for a company that you get a w-2 from, benefits, etc. which help you and your family in the long run.

Answer 3

Perhaps you should consider being a company paid driver first. Before you finance your own rig this experience will get your feet wet. The minimum age requirement is 23 years old for most carriers.

Answer 4

Do you really want to sit in a seat and drive 10 hours a day?
Oh and that "see the country" bit is a crock. You get to see the polluted roadsides of America. yay.
Don't do it!!!
Oh and as Gas prices go up, you'll be paid less.

Answer 5

Having driven rigs for awhile I would not recommend it for anyone who can do better. It can destroy your back if you have to load and unload (and most of the time you do), kill your kidneys from all the bouncing and the road diet (fast food crap) is not very healthy. Also don't expect to make a fortune - won't happen.

Answer 6

you might wanna be a driver for a company first before being the owner/operator---but YEs with alot of hard work-its a good career